Leeds, MA – Walter Dembek, 95, passed away on December 21, 2025, at Linda Manor in Leeds, Massachusetts. Born on April 27, 1930, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Walter and Sally (Baron) Dembek, Walter lived a vibrant life defined by dedication to family, faith, and service.
A proud graduate of Holyoke public schools and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a degree in engineering, Walter built a distinguished career as a design engineer with Kollmorgen Corporation’s Electro-optical Division. There, he specialized in developing periscopes for the U.S. Navy and was honored with multiple commendations from the Vice Admiral of Naval Sea Systems Command for his impactful work. He also served in the Air Force Reserves, continuing a legacy of military service begun by his father, Walter B. Dembek Sr., who served in both WWI and WWII.
Walter’s talents extended far beyond engineering. He earned real estate and lead paint certifications later in life and designed and built homes throughout Massachusetts. As a certified inspector for the state, he conducted lead paint inspections with notable care and precision.
Music was one of Walter’s lifelong passions. He founded the band Novel-Aires and performed across New England for over six decades alongside fellow musicians “Butch” Gillman, John White, Gene Warawaka, Ted Sparko, Russ Johnson and others.
A devoted member and lay minister at Blessed Sacrament Church in Northampton, Walter also designed and built a grotto dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His generosity touched many through his role as Scout Master for Cub Scout Pack 119.
Walter shared 55 years of marriage with Patricia (Shea) Dembek until her passing in 2006. He was also predeceased by their daughter Cynthia Louise Dembek and his sister Phyllis (O’Connor) Kownacki.
He is lovingly remembered by his life partner of 18 years, Elena Iverson; children Colleen (and Rocky) Allen, Cheryl D. Kennedy, and Alan Dembek; grandchildren Cassandra and Amanda Allen, Katelyn and Colleen Kennedy, Matthew and Andrew Simmoneau, and Jessica (Nicolas) Monahan; and great-grandchildren Ru Rossi, Jeremy Rucker, Jasper and Cody Boynton, Brentley Simmoneau, Olivia, Amelia, and Parker Monahan.
The family is planning a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Linda Manor Extended Stay Activities Department at 349 Haydenville Road, Leeds, MA 01053. Walter’s family would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the wonderful care provided at his last earthly home.
Walter once said: “I’m going the distance.” And indeed he did-living fully with grace, humor, generosity, and unwavering faith. May we always remember the lessons of gratitude and the shared joy of a smile.
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